How to Plan Your Istanbul Full-Day Small Group City Highlights Tour

Istanbul is one of the most fascinating cities to visit in the world. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder that travelers from all around the globe want to explore this beautiful city. If you’re planning on visiting Istanbul, booking a full-day small group city highlights tour is a great way to see everything the city has to offer. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your tour.

Experience

The Istanbul Full-Day Small Group City Highlights Tour is an excellent way to get to know the city. With your own local guide, you’ll visit the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet Square, and the Grand Bazaar. You’ll also get to experience shopping with locals, learn the history of the Byzantines, Ottomans, and modern Turks, and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.

Highlights

– Enjoy a customized full-day group tour with your own local guide – Visit Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Sultanahmet Square – Experience shopping with locals in the world-famous Grand Bazaar – Learn the history of the Byzantines, Ottomans, and modern Turks – Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant – Hotel pickup from central Istanbul hotels (Taksim, Besiktas, and Sultanahmet) – Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle – Topkapi Palace entry fee (500TL per person)

Planning Your Tour

When planning your tour, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Booking Your Tour

You can book your Istanbul Full-Day Small Group City Highlights Tour online through GetYourGuide.com. With the provided link, you can secure your spot on this popular tour. Simply click on the link and follow the instructions to book your tour. The pickup is only available from centrally located hotels in Taksim, Besiktas, and Sultanahmet.

Tour Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 4 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee. If you cancel within 3 days of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.

What to Bring

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as this tour involves a lot of walking. Bring sunscreen if needed and carry a camera to take photos of the beautiful places you visit.

What’s Included

The Istanbul Full-Day Small Group City Highlights Tour includes: – Full-day sightseeing tour – Guide – Lunch in a local restaurant – Hotel pickup from central Istanbul hotels (Taksim, Besiktas, and Sultanahmet) – Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle – Topkapi Palace entry fee (500TL per person) – Drinks with lunch – Tips (optional)

What’s Not Included

– Anything not specified as included in the tour

Additional Information

– This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. – Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. – Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Book Your Tour Now

The Istanbul Full-Day Small Group City Highlights Tour is an excellent way to experience everything that Istanbul has to offer. With your own local guide to lead the way, you’ll visit some of the city’s most famous landmarks, learn about the history of the area, and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. Book your tour today and get ready to experience the magic of Istanbul. Book the tour here to secure your spot and enjoy a memorable day exploring Istanbul.

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

Istanbul is a fascinating city that straddles the continents of Europe and Asia. Its rich history, unique culture, and stunning architecture make it a popular tourist destination. If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, you probably have a lot of questions. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip:

1. What is Istanbul’s weather like?

Istanbul has a temperate climate, with mild winters and warm summers. The best time to visit Istanbul is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are thinner.

2. What is the best way to get around Istanbul?

The best way to get around Istanbul is by public transportation. The city has an extensive network of buses, trams, metro lines, and ferries that connect all parts of the city. Taxis are also available, but they can be quite expensive in comparison.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is filled with amazing attractions, some of the must-sees include:

• Hagia Sophia: Once a church, then a mosque, now a museum, Hagia Sophia is a world-famous attraction that you cannot miss.
• Blue Mosque: The Sultan Ahmet Mosque, known as the Blue Mosque for its beautiful blue tiles, is a mosque that is still in use and also serves as a major tourist attraction.
• The Grand Bazaar: A maze-like shopping destination with over 4,000 shops, making it one of the largest covered markets in the world.
• Topkapi Palace: Once home to the Ottoman sultans, Topkapi Palace is a must-see attraction that is filled with beautiful architecture, gardens, and treasures.
• Bosphorus Cruise: A great way to get a different perspective of Istanbul, the Bosphorus strait separates Europe and Asia and a cruise along it is a great way to take in the sights of Istanbul.

4. What is the local currency in Istanbul?

The currency used in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira (TRY).

5. Is English widely spoken in Istanbul?

While Turkish is the official language of Istanbul, many people in Istanbul speak English, especially those in the tourist industry. However, it’s always useful to learn a few basic Turkish phrases to communicate with locals.

6. Is Istanbul safe for tourists?

Istanbul is generally a safe city for tourists, but visitors should still exercise common sense and caution. Pickpocketing and scams do occur, especially in crowded tourist areas. Avoid dark and unlit areas at night and be mindful of your surroundings.

7. What is Istanbul’s cuisine like?

Istanbul’s cuisine is a mixture of Ottoman, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern influences. Some popular dishes to try in Istanbul include:

• Doner Kebab: A popular Turkish dish made with seasoned meat that is cooked on a vertical rotisserie.
• Baklava: A dessert made of layers of phyllo pastry filled with chopped nuts and soaked in honey.
• Manti: A traditional Turkish dumpling filled with spiced meat and served with garlic yogurt and tomato sauce.
• Lahmacun: A thin, crispy dough topped with spiced minced meat and vegetables, similar to a Turkish pizza.
• Beyti Kebab: Ground lamb or beef mixed with spices and rolled in lavash bread before grilling served with garlic yogurt and tomato sauce.

8. What is the dress code in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a modern and cosmopolitan city, so there is no strict dress code. However, it’s important to dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites. Women should cover their heads, arms, and legs, and men should wear long pants and avoid sleeveless tops.

9. What is Istanbul’s nightlife like?

Istanbul has a vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars, clubs, and rooftop terraces to choose from. Many of the best nightlife spots are located in the Taksim and Beyoglu neighborhoods.

10. What are some cultural customs to be aware of in Istanbul?

Here are a few cultural customs to keep in mind when visiting Istanbul:

• Greeting: When greeting someone in Turkey, a handshake is acceptable, but it’s also common for men to give a kiss on each cheek, followed by a third kiss on the alternate cheek.
• Shoes: It’s customary to remove your shoes when entering a mosque or someone’s home.
• Tipping: Tipping is common in Istanbul, especially in restaurants and cafes. It’s customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the bill.
• Religious customs: Visitors should be respectful of any religious customs, and women should dress appropriately when visiting mosques.
• Body language: It’s considered impolite to point with your finger in Turkey, instead, use your whole hand or gesture with your chin.

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul is an incredible city with a rich history, unique culture, and plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or just a great adventure, there is something for everyone in Istanbul. With the right planning and knowledge, your trip to Istanbul is bound to be an unforgettable experience.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Istanbul

Istanbul is a fascinating city, situated at the intersection of Europe and Asia. With its rich history, cultural landmarks, and delicious food, there are so many things to see and do in Istanbul. In this article, we’ll give you a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Istanbul.

Day 1: Explore the Old City

Start off your trip by exploring Istanbul’s Old City, also known as Sultanahmet. This area is home to some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks and historical sites. Here are some places to visit:

1. Hagia Sophia

Once a church, then a mosque, and now a museum, Hagia Sophia is an iconic landmark of Istanbul. The magnificent structure dates back to the 6th century and is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Inside, you’ll see stunning mosaics and frescoes, as well as the massive central dome.

2. Blue Mosque

Just across the plaza from Hagia Sophia is the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. This mosque is considered one of Istanbul’s most beautiful buildings, with its six minarets and stunning blue tilework. Visitors are welcome to enter the mosque outside of prayer times.

3. Topkapi Palace

Next, head to Topkapi Palace, which was the residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. The palace complex is vast, with stunning courtyards, gardens, and pavilions. Be sure to visit the Harem, where the sultans’ wives and concubines lived.

4. Grand Bazaar

Finally, end your day by visiting the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets. The bazaar has over 4,000 shops, selling everything from textiles to Turkish delight. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs and practice your bargaining skills.

Day 2: Cruise the Bosphorus

Day 2 is all about exploring Istanbul’s waterways. The Bosphorus Strait separates Europe and Asia and is home to several noteworthy landmarks.

1. Bosphorus Cruise

Start your day by taking a Bosphorus cruise. Many operators offer a range of cruises that allow you to explore the strait and see the city from a different perspective. Along the way, you’ll pass by stunning Ottoman palaces, such as Dolmabahce Palace and Beylerbeyi Palace.

2. Maiden’s Tower

At the mouth of the Bosphorus Strait lies Maiden’s Tower, also known as Kiz Kulesi in Turkish. This tiny tower has a fascinating history and has been used as a lighthouse, prison, and even a quarantine station. Nowadays, visitors can take a boat to the tower and enjoy a meal or drink while taking in the stunning views.

3. Ortakoy Mosque

Ortakoy Mosque is another iconic Istanbul landmark that is best viewed from the water. The mosque is built in a neo-Baroque style and sits right on the Bosphorus shore. The area around the mosque is also a great place to grab a bite to eat or shop for souvenirs.

4. Galata Tower

Finally, end your day by heading to Galata Tower. This medieval tower is located in the trendy neighborhood of Galata and offers stunning views of the city from above. Be sure to visit at sunset to see Istanbul at its most beautiful.

Day 3: Eat Your Way Through Istanbul

Istanbul is known for its delicious cuisine, and day 3 is all about exploring the city’s food scene. Here are some must-try dishes and places to eat:

1. Turkish Breakfast

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast. Typical breakfast dishes include eggs, feta cheese, tomatoes, olives, and honeycomb. Be sure to try the Turkish tea, which is served in small, tulip-shaped glasses.

2. Kebabs

For lunch, head to one of Istanbul’s many kebab restaurants. Adana kebab, made with spicy minced meat, is a local favorite. Other varieties include shish kebab and doner kebab.

3. Baklava

No trip to Istanbul would be complete without trying baklava, a sweet dessert made with layers of filo pastry, chopped nuts, and honey syrup. Head to Karakoy Gulluoglu, one of Istanbul’s top baklava shops, to try this delicious treat.

4. Turkish Delight

Finally, end your day by indulging in some Turkish delight. This sweet treat comes in a variety of flavors, including rose, pistachio, and cinnamon. Head to Hafiz Mustafa, one of Istanbul’s most famous Turkish delight shops, to sample some of the best.

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul has so much to offer tourists, from historic landmarks to delicious food. By following this 3-day guide, you’ll be able to experience all that Istanbul has to offer and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget to bring your walking shoes and your appetite!